Despite a courageous effort, the Kenya Sevens team succumbed to a 31-12 defeat against Argentina as they kicked off their 2024 Paris Olympic Games campaign at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, Paris, on Wednesday.

Coach Kevin Wambua chose to start the game with Samuel Asati, Anthony Mboya, Chrisant Ojwang, Kevin Wekesa, Patrick Odongo, John Okoth, and Vincent Onyala. Meanwhile, Nygel Amaitsa, Lamech Ambetsa, George Ooro, Herman Humwa, and Brian Tanga began on the bench.

Vincent Onyala made history by becoming the first Kenya Sevens player to compete in two Olympic Games, joining the ranks of Andrew Amonde, Billy Odhiambo, Collins Injera, and Willy Ambaka.

This marks Shujaa’s third appearance at the Olympic Games, and they made a strong start with Kabras Sugar’s Kevin Wekesa scoring the opening try in the fourth minute. Captain Anthony Mboya (Mwamba) successfully converted, giving Shujaa a 7-0 lead.

Argentina managed to narrow the gap before halftime, with Agustin Fraga scoring a try. However, their conversion attempt was unsuccessful, allowing Kenya Sevens to maintain a 7-5 lead at the break.

After the restart, Argentina quickly erased Kenya’s lead, with Fraga scoring another try, which Joaquin Pellandini converted to put the South Americans ahead 12-7. Kenya responded promptly, with Kevin Wekesa scoring his second try to level the score at 12-12.

However, this was Kenya’s last scoring act of the game, as the disparity in class between the teams became evident. Late tries from Tomas Elizalde, Luciano Gonzalez, and Marcos Moneta, with Pellandini converting two, sealed a 31-12 victory for Argentina.

Coach Wambua emphasized that the Kenya Sevens were working hard on improving their defensive frameworks before the Olympics. Shujaa will need to focus on their defense and in-game management in their next match, as they face Australia at 8 p.m. at the Stade de France.

Australia began their campaign with a 21-14 victory over Samoa, making it crucial for Shujaa to win their next match to keep their medal hopes alive